Diamond Vs. Gold


Diamond is a very popular precious gemstone composed of carbon.[1] Gold is also a very popular mineral and its chemical composition is gold.[2]

Images of diamond

Images of gold


Quick Facts on Differences of Diamond and Gold

For a quick recap of the differences diamond and gold:
  • While both diamond and gold can be opaque, diamond can be translucent or transparent.
  • For chemical formulas, diamond is C while gold is Au.
  • In terms of luster, diamond is adamantine while gold is metallic.
  • Diamond streaks white while gold streaks golden, golden yellow or yellow.
  • Diamond can be commonly colorless while gold can be commonly yellow.
  • Diamond's specific gravity is lower than gold - diamond ranges from 2.9 to 3.5 and gold ranges from 15.5 to 19.3.

Quick Facts on Similarities of Diamond and Gold

The similarities of diamond and gold include:
  • Diamond's rarity is similar to gold.

Summary of Diamond

Diamond is a rare and valuable mineral that is highly sought after for its beauty and durability. It is composed of pure carbon atoms arranged in a crystal lattice structure, making it the hardest naturally occurring substance on Earth. The unique properties of diamond make it highly suitable for use in a variety of applications, from jewelry to industrial tools and equipment.

Summary of Gold

Gold is a chemical element with the symbol Au (from Latin: aurum) and atomic number 79, making it one of the higher atomic number elements that occur naturally. It is a bright, slightly reddish yellow, dense, soft, malleable, and ductile metal. Gold is a precious metal that has been used for currency, jewelry, and decoration for thousands of years. It is also used in electronics, medicine, and as a conductor in space vehicles and satellites.

Table Comparison of Diamond vs Gold

Diamond (src) Gold (src)
Transparency transparent, translucent, opaque opaque
Chemical Formula C Au
Chemical Composition carbon gold
Specific Gravity 2.9, 3.5, 3.515 15.5, 19.3
Streak white golden, golden yellow, yellow
Hydrous No No
Colors common: colorless
sometimes: blue, white, yellow
less common: red, gray, pink, black, brown, green, orange, purple, violet
common: yellow
less common: brass, gold
Fracture conchoidal hackly


Compare Minerals

Mineral missing
Mineral missing